n. [ Back, a. or adv. + -water. ] 1. Water turned back in its course by an obstruction, an opposing current, or the flow of the tide, as in a sewer or river channel, or across a river bar. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. An accumulation of water overflowing the low lands, caused by an obstruction. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. Water thrown back by the turning of a waterwheel, or by the paddle wheels of a steamer. [ 1913 Webster ]